Deep Brain Stimulation

How Does Deep Brain Stimulation Work?

To provide deep brain stimulation, a Cone Health surgeon places tiny electrodes in your brain. The electrodes attach to a thin wire that is inserted under your skin and connects to a small control unit, or neurostimulator, implanted in your chest. You’ll receive anesthesia and sedation to prevent pain and relax you during surgery, but will stay awake so your surgeon can test how your body reacts to placement of the electrodes.

Is This Treatment Right for Me?

You may be a candidate for deep brain stimulation at Cone Health if:

You developed Parkinson’s disease from an unknown cause and experience unusual movements or severe tremors.

Your symptoms harm your quality of life or work.

Your current treatment doesn’t benefit you enough.

Deep brain stimulation may not be right for you if your symptoms don’t respond to levodopa, or you have dementia or uncontrolled depression. In these cases, ask your neurologist what other treatments may help.